Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler vs Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

Overview of the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler

The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black CPU Cooler is designed for superior heat dissipation with its twin-tower body and dual high-performance fans. Priced at C$54.90, this cooler features a height of 158mm, making it suitable for larger chassis configurations. Its innovative design includes a pure copper base and six heatpipes, efficiently transferring heat to the large aluminium fins. With a maximum fan speed of 1500 RPM, it can deliver an air volume of 66.17 CFM while maintaining a noise level of only 25.6 dB(A). This cooler is compatible with a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel's latest LGA1700 and AMD's AM5, ensuring versatility for various builds.

Overview of the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler

The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE CPU Air Cooler is a more compact option priced at C$25.59. It measures 125mm in length, 71mm in width, and 148mm in height, making it suitable for medium-sized computer cases. This cooler employs an advanced AGHP technique with four 6mm heat pipes, addressing the inverse gravity effect which can occur in different orientations. The fan speed can reach up to 1550 RPM, providing an air flow of 66.17 CFM with a comparable noise level of 25.6 dB(A). Compatible with Intel's LGA115X and AMD's AM4 sockets, this cooler offers a solid option for budget-conscious users seeking effective cooling solutions.

Cooling Performance Comparison

In terms of cooling performance, the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black stands out due to its dual tower and dual fan configuration, which enhances heat dissipation capabilities. With a maximum fan speed of 1500 RPM, it excels in airflow, ensuring efficient cooling even during heavy usage. Conversely, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE, while compact and effective at 1550 RPM, offers a slightly reduced height and less surface area for heat dissipation. Both coolers maintain a low noise level of 25.6 dB(A), making them suitable for users prioritizing quiet operation. However, the Peerless Assassin's larger design gives it an edge when it comes to cooling performance under heavy loads.

Installation and Compatibility

Installation and compatibility are critical factors for users. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black offers a comprehensive mounting kit that supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel’s LGA1700 and AMD’s AM5, ensuring broad compatibility with modern builds. Its height of 158mm may require consideration for specific case sizes. On the other hand, the Assassin X 120 SE, with its more compact dimensions of 148mm in height, is also compatible with Intel's LGA115X and AMD's AM4 sockets, making it an excellent fit for smaller cases. Both products come equipped with easy-to-install metal fasteners, making setup straightforward for users.

Build Quality and Materials

Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and Assassin X 120 SE are constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. The Peerless model features a pure copper base and aluminium fins, which optimize heat transfer and overall cooling efficiency. Its all-metal fasteners and robust design further enhance its reliability. Conversely, the Assassin X 120 SE utilises aluminium for its heatsink along with metal fasteners and S-FDB bearings, which provide a long service life of up to 20,000 hours. While both coolers are built with quality in mind, the Peerless Assassin’s advanced materials and design lend it a slight advantage in thermal management.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a significant consideration for many users, especially in gaming or office environments. Both the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and the Assassin X 120 SE operate at a maximum noise level of 25.6 dB(A). This means that users can expect a quiet operation from both products, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments. However, the Peerless Assassin's larger dual fan setup may produce a more consistent airflow without ramping up noise levels under load, which could be a deciding factor for users who value a quiet system.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetic appeal can play a significant role in a user's final decision. The Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black features a sleek twin-tower design that can enhance the visual appeal of a rig, especially with its black finish. It is designed to be visually striking while also functional. In contrast, the Assassin X 120 SE, while still a well-designed cooler, has a more utilitarian look that may not stand out as much in a high-end build. Users prioritizing aesthetics may gravitate towards the Peerless Assassin for its modern appearance and design.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 140 Black and the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for superior cooling performance and can accommodate a larger cooler in your build, the Peerless Assassin at C$54.90 is worth the investment. It offers enhanced heat dissipation and compatibility with the latest CPU sockets. However, if you are on a tighter budget and require a more compact solution, the Assassin X 120 SE at C$25.59 provides excellent performance for its price, making it a solid choice for mid-range builds.